How does Pennsylvania handle same-sex divorce?

Since marriage equality became law, Pennsylvania has treated same-sex divorce the same as any other divorce. The same rules apply for property division, spousal support, and custody matters. The length of your relationship before marriage may also be considered when dividing assets or determining support.

What options do we have for establishing parental rights?

Pennsylvania offers several paths to establish legal parent-child relationships, including second-parent adoption, stepparent adoption, and birth certificates listing both parents. Second-parent adoption provides the strongest protection, as it's recognized across state lines and can't be challenged if you move or travel.

How are custody rights determined for non-biological parents?

When a non-biological parent has legally adopted the child or is listed on the birth certificate, they have the same custody rights as any other parent. Courts consider factors like the child's relationship with each parent, stability, and best interests when making custody decisions.

What happens to assets we acquired before marriage equality?

The court can consider the entire length of your relationship, not just the legal marriage, when dividing property and determining support. Assets and debts acquired during your committed relationship may be treated as marital property, even if they pre-date your legal marriage.

Does being a same-sex couple affect child support obligations?

Child support obligations are determined using the same guidelines that apply to all parents. The court considers factors like each parent's income, custody arrangements, and the child's needs. Legal parentage must be established for the court to order support.

How can we protect our rights if we travel or move to another state?

We recommend completing second-parent adoptions and maintaining clear legal documentation of your parental rights and relationships. Pennsylvania divorce decrees and custody orders are generally recognized by other states, but additional legal steps may be needed to ensure protection across state lines.

Montgomery County Same-Sex Divorce Lawyer | LGBTQ+ Family Law Attorney in Rockledge, PA

LGBTQ+ Family Law Attorney in Rockledge, PA Advocating For Equal Rights in Montgomery County, Bucks County, and Throughout The Philadelphia Area

The landscape of LGBTQ+ family law has transformed dramatically in recent years, with legal recognitions expanding to support the rights of same-sex couples. At Blessing Law, a Montgomery County same-sex divorce lawyer is dedicated to advocating for equal rights and providing comprehensive legal guidance through family transitions.

Navigating divorce and family law matters can be particularly challenging for LGBTQ+ couples. Our experienced attorneys understand these unique dynamics, ensuring that your rights are protected and your family's best interests are at the forefront of every legal strategy.

Same-Sex Marriage Is Legal in Pennsylvania—And So Is Same-Sex Divorce

Until May 20, 2014, Pennsylvania did not allow same-sex marriage, only “domestic partnerships.” This meant that same-sex couples who had been married in other states and wanted a divorce could not do so unless one of the spouses moved to another state to establish residency. Now that Pennsylvania allows same-sex marriage, same-sex spouses seeking divorce have the same financial, custody, and other rights that heterosexual couples do.

Before, one same-sex partner could be left without money or access to children and no legal recourse after a split. The law now provides an official framework to divide assets and other common aspects of a previously shared life.

Our Montgomery County Same-Sex Divorce Lawyer Offers Comprehensive Services for All Aspects of Divorce

At Blessing Law, in Rockledge, Pennsylvania, our Montgomery County same-sex divorce lawyers provide informed counsel to same-sex clients seeking a divorce, whether they were originally married in this or another state. We can clarify the rights of same-sex clients in all aspects of divorce, including:

Property rights
Asset division
Separation
Child custody issues

In our representation of our clients in same-sex marriages, as in our representation of all of our clients, our firm encourages participation in alternative dispute resolution methods to resolve any conflicts that may arise in a more efficient and cost-effective manner. However, when your situation requires another path, you can count on our LGBTQ+ family law attorney in Rockledge, PA, to advocate for you through traditional divorce proceedings.

Assisting Same-Sex Couples Through The Adoption Process

If you are considering adopting a child into your household, it is critical to involve a dedicated and passionate lawyer who understands the laws in this area. Our Montgomery County same-sex divorce lawyers will explain the entire process to you and show you which path is best for your family based on your unique goals.

Our law firm provides comprehensive support for same-sex couples navigating the adoption process, including:

Legal guidance: Providing trusted advice on current adoption laws and regulations specific to same-sex couples
Paperwork assistance: Helping you complete and file all necessary legal documents accurately and efficiently
Home study preparation: Guiding you through the home study process to meet all legal requirements
Court representation: Representing your interests throughout the adoption proceedings
Post-adoption support: Offering continued legal support to ensure your family's rights are protected

At Blessing Law, we are committed to helping same-sex couples build their families through adoption. An LGBTQ+ family law attorney in Rockledge, PA, from our team understands the unique challenges you may face. We are dedicated to providing compassionate, knowledgeable legal support every step of the way. We believe every family is unique, and we work tirelessly to help you navigate the legal complexities of the adoption process with confidence and peace of mind.

Get a Consultation With a Montgomery County Same-Sex Divorce Lawyer From Blessing Law

If you are a married same-sex couple in Pennsylvania with questions about divorce or adoption, do not hesitate to contact a Montgomery County same-sex divorce lawyer from Blessing Law online or call us at 215-608-6236 for an appointment for a 10-minute conversation. We also offer a two-hour consultation for a very reasonable fee. Our office is located in Rockledge.

We understand that legal consultations can feel intimidating, especially when dealing with sensitive family matters. Our team is committed to creating a welcoming, supportive environment where you can openly discuss your concerns and explore your legal options. During our consultation, we will listen carefully to your unique situation, provide clear and compassionate guidance, and help you understand the next steps in your legal journey.

Montgomery County Same-Sex Divorce Lawyer